Johnson Publishing Co. partners with American Greetings on Ebony card line

(October 25, 2006) Johnson Publishing Company, the world’s largest Black-owned publishing company and home of Ebony magazine, has announced a partnership with American Greetings to create the Ebony Inspirations greeting card brand. The first series of cards will be launched at approximately 900 Wal-Mart stores in celebration of Black History month in February 2007. The deal was brokered by Santa Monica, California based licensing agency, TurnerPatterson.

Drawing on iconic cover images from Ebony over the past 60 years, the cards will capture the spirit of Black History Month by honoring famous African-Americans from all walks of life. Ranging from baseball legend Hank Aaron to Frederick Douglas, from Josephine Baker to Duke Ellington, the cards will also a symbol of the influence and prominence of Ebony Magazine as the premier African-American publication.

“The creation of an Ebony greeting card line represents another opportunity to celebrate all that is beautiful about Black life,” said Linda Johnson Rice, President and CEO of Johnson Publishing Company. The cards inspire consumers to reminisce on special Ebony moments while honoring African Americans who have positively influenced our lives.“

“American Greetings is thrilled to bring its creativity to this partnership with Ebony and to produce this exclusive line of cards. We are honored to be able to share some of Ebony’s classic, iconic covers in this special collection which will be introduced prior to Black History Month. This historic collection highlights people and events that have made a significant impact on the African-American community, while truly changing the landscape of America and the world.” said Paul Palmer, Director of Alternative Cards for American Greetings.

Ebony Magazine, founded by the late John H. Johnson, continues to be the number one lifestyle publication for African-Americans and currently reaches more than 12.9 million readers monthly and over 65% of African-Americans on an annual basis.

 “We are very excited about the alliance between Ebony and American Greetings. It is our goal to educate and inspire through our card program. This program is the continuation of our commitment to create products to enhance the lives of Ebony readers everyday”, said Debra Turner, CEO of TurnerPatterson.

The newly formed licensing division plans to continue to build on the Ebony lifestyle brand in the African-American community as well as reach out to a larger and diverse section of the population. The programs are designed to resonate with current readers and a broader demographic by introducing new Ebony brands such as Ebony Home™, The Ebony Collection™, apparel for men and women, and reintroducing Ebony favorites such as the Ebony Jr.!™ brand.


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